What is American Exceptionalism - 1316 Words

While some find us arrogant, condescending and imperialistic, those who have come to join us in America find that there is some truth in the notion that our country is unique. Nowhere else is the freedom to express and improve yourself so widespread, and no other country welcomes those seeking that freedom so openly. Assimilation to our culture is not forced, but it is the rare individual who does not welcome it once they are here. Many people consider themselves to be the best humans on the planet, or maybe the only ones chosen by their god to succeed, but nobody can claim to be as powerful and prosperous as Americans are. To us the idea of American Exceptionalism is not propaganda or a myth; it is the understanding that the only way to the make the most of oneself is to have the freedom to do so. Some of the first colonists to land on the shores of the â€Å"new world† believed that they had a mandate from God to create a new society here, and that it should be a new, superi or kind of society that would be an example to the rest of the world. John Winthrop told his flock aboard the Arbella that their society would be grounded in the principles of the Bible, and that by concentrating themselves in one area together they would be able to have a more pure Christian society. They would be able to repel the influences of the inferior and corrupt exterior world, and although they would practice the precept to â€Å"love his neighbor as himself,† they would prefer to have a ChristianShow MoreRelatedAmerican Exceptionalism And The United States Of America Essay1558 Words   |  7 PagesIn today’s world, many people consider our country, The United States of America, to be outstanding and a great country. Others do not think the same. This concept is known as American exceptionalism. This concept has been debated for many years, and to this day it still is. Although American exceptionalism can be hard to define, there are many ways to define it. Some say that we are exceptional because we are superior to everybody else and are better. Others say that God has given us the power toRead MoreJohn Winthrop, Juan Jose Arevalo, And George W. Bushs Idea Of American Exceptionalism1008 Words   |  5 Pages American Exceptionalism Throughout American history, idealists and materialists have changed the theme of exceptionalism. In our readings, we see the idea of american exceptionalism come to life from the writings of John Winthrop, Juan Jose Arevalo, and George W. Bush. Exceptionalism is when one depicts something, especially a nation, as unique and different from others. Winthrop expresses exceptionalism to his Puritan followers as the belief that they are special and above all others, while ArevaloRead MoreThe Impact Of Exceptionalism On The United States944 Words   |  4 PagesExceptionalism is neither new, as explained above, nor exclusive to the United States. Several historical actors, such as Great Britain, France and the former Soviet Union claimed exceptionalist ideas (Ignatieff, 2005; Holsti, 2010). The current U.S. President Obama also stresses a similar point by stating that â€Å"I believe in American exceptionalism, just as I suspect that the Brits believe in British exceptionalism and the G reeks believe in Greek exceptionalism† (Obama, cited in Ceaser, 2012, p.4)Read MoreThe Roots Of American Exceptionalism1055 Words   |  5 Pagesis important to examine the roots of American exceptionalism. French philosopher and social scientist, Alexis de Tocqueville was recognized to be the first writer to promote the theory of exceptionalism via his document Democracy in America. However, his use of exceptionalism does not match the true concept. Tocqueville reveals that â€Å"Americans have no aptitude or taste for science, literature, or art, but argues that this is due to the particular American experience, and is no natural concomitantRead MoreThe Relativity Of Exceptionalism : Donald Trump1118 Words   |  5 PagesRelativity of Exceptionalism Donald Trump: multibillionaire business man. Donald Trump has constantly maintained an awful reputation for being impudent and insulting. Trump displays his hatred for muslims and Mexicans to gain followers in his campaign for presidency. As awful as it may sound, American citizens are drawn to Trumps campaign because he believes that no one else belongs in America, besides Americans. Trump’s ethic to making â€Å"America great again† is by excluding every non-American from AmericaRead MoreEssay about American Exceptionalism and Cross-Cultural Communications1638 Words   |  7 PagesThe study of American exceptionalism and cross-cultural communications has the ability to improve U.S. military effectiveness in USPACOM. Understanding these two cultural principles will improve effectiveness in three ways. First, it allows USPACOM personnel to understand their biases. Second, it gives USPACOM personnel a perspective on how nations in their area of responsibility may po tentially view their actions. Finally, cross-cultural communications provides tools for USPACOM personnel toRead MoreThe Evolution of American Exceptionalism Essay726 Words   |  3 Pagesof American exceptionalism has evolved, but the era of American exceptionalism as a providential mission is drawing to a close. The meaning of American exceptionalism has evolved from the two definitions of â€Å"unique† and â€Å"special† to include an appointed mission and has been used to justify action and consolidate people around ideas. The U.S. went from identifying itself as an exemplar nation for the world to emulate, to creating an interventionist mission of exceptionalism. Today â€Å"American exceptionalism†Read More Perception of American Exceptionalism Essay example1501 Words   |  7 PagesAmericans through the years of existence have adapted well to the radical changes throughout the world. Technology, independence and social equality are some of the diverse concepts the United States have adapted to and developed in order to become a more unified country. Our nation believes that it is exceptional when it comes to other countries worldwide. As can be shown through the popular reference to America as the ‘shining city on a hill’. The term â€Å"American e xceptionalism† is derived fromRead MoreAmerican Exceptionalism By George Washington1320 Words   |  6 PagesAmerican Exceptionalism is the term that imperialists in the United States regularly use to claim that their country is unusual or amazing. American exceptionalism defend to the exceptional character of the United States as an inimitably free country centered on democratic principles and personal liberty. American Exceptionalism is an issue that has been existed from early years and George Washington is one of the key pieces in this issue. The U.S history maintenance the idea of American ExceptionalismRead MoreThe United States Of America852 Words   |  4 PagesUnited States of America is known for being a major power in the world stage. A nation that provides opportunity for those that are willing to work hard for what they want. Since the discovery of this land, the United States has served as a gateway for immigrants to gain riches and have a unique lifestyle, envy by many countries worldwide. The American lifestyle is modeled after the phrase life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, found in the Declaration of Independence. A citizen of this country